Sharon holding on to the hope she feels

Fwamba and Sharon at Cape Town Refugee Center

My first week interning at the Cape Town Refugee Centre (CTRC) was SO AWESOME!! I arrived at CTRC on Monday morning excited and anxious. Right when I got off the bus and entered the center, which is located on top of a mall (!!), Antoinette, the beautiful and friendly receptionist immediately greeted me and introduced me to the staff that I will be working with for the upcoming three months.

The first day flew by. I was immersed with the work at the center without any orientation or introduction meeting, which was a little overwhelming. The director of the center allowed me to shadow a social worker in the psycho and social services department for the duration of the whole day. On Mondays and Tuesdays, the center opens its doors to refugees and asylum seekers to come and talk to social workers. I sat in on Fwamba’s meetings and listened to various problems and concerns they are dealing with. The day was emotionally taxing to say the least.

Refugees are entering South Africa from all over the continent in search for a better life. They are leaving behind their families, possessions and memories to escape civil war or persecution from their home government due to their religious or political beliefs. As I left the center my first day, my heart was heavy. I felt like I was carrying the weight of all the burdens and grievances I heard sitting throughout all the meetings. Many refugees have trouble finding employment due to language barriers or because they are unaware of how to market their skillsets effectively when seeking employment. Due to their lack of income, many refugees are unable to support their families, and therefore, are in dire need for food assistance and immediate vulnerable refugee care. However, although I felt wary and saddened due to the plights as refugees living in an increasingly xenophobic country, I also had a sense of hope. The Cape Town Refugee Center does amazing work. They serve as a resource to aid refugees and guide them to become self-reliant. I am excited to see my role as a member of CTRC grow throughout my experience.